Kevin Durant's 39-point performance, including a season-high six 3-pointers, propelled the Houston Rockets to a thrilling 110-105 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday night. This triumph marked a significant rebound from the Rockets' previous blowout loss to Oklahoma City, with Alperen Sengun contributing 25 points and 14 rebounds. The game was a testament to Durant's exceptional shooting prowess, especially after his previous 0-for-5 performance against the Thunder.
The Timberwolves, led by Julius Randle's 18 points, mounted a late comeback, narrowing the deficit to 105-102 with 90 seconds remaining. However, the Rockets' resilience prevailed, as Durant's free throws in the final moments sealed the deal. Despite the loss, the Timberwolves's Naz Reid showcased his talent with 25 points and 10 rebounds, extending their remarkable streak of scoring at least 100 points in 100 consecutive games, the third-longest in NBA history.
Both teams struggled with free-throw shooting, with Houston making 20 of 34 and Minnesota hitting 20 of 35. Rudy Gobert's poor free-throw night (2 for 10) further emphasized the challenge. The Rockets' next game is a home match against New Orleans, while the Timberwolves will travel to San Antonio.
This victory highlights the Rockets' ability to bounce back from setbacks, showcasing their resilience and Durant's exceptional skills. The Timberwolves, despite the loss, continue to impress with their consistent scoring, setting a remarkable NBA record.